Kao Data_ESG Report 25-26_SP - Flipbook - Page 39
Introduction
Environmental
Social Sustainability
Governance
Hi Lizzy, can you tell us about your career in tech?
How can the industry support women better?
Hi, I am Lizzy McDowell, and I am Director of Marketing
at Kao Data. My journey into the data centre industry was
completely unexpected. After being stuck in a boring job
in the photocopier industry and looking for a way out, I
was contacted by a recruiter about a job in the data centre
industry. At the time I didn’t even know what a data centre
was, let alone quite how dependent I was on one, but I took
a leap of faith and I have never regretted it.
I think it is crucial that women continue to shape the future
of work and society. Women bring unique perspectives and
harnessing that diversity of opinion makes us all stronger. I
hope in the future the industry breaks down more barriers
to further recognise women for their diverse skill sets. That
starts with building better awareness for women that digital
infrastructure careers actually exist and then helping build
more routes for those women into the industry.
What do you like about your digital infrastructure
career at Kao Data?
How would you advise women considering careers
in tech?
The industry is vast and underpins every single aspect
of digital modern life which I 昀椀nd exciting. What I have
found refreshing at Kao Data is that I am recognised for
the contribution I make to the team, and I am not treated
differently as a result of my gender as I was in my previous
role. I feel that here everyone is treated equally, women are
fully supported to thrive and it’s all just about the value you
can bring to the table.
My biggest advice to women is to look beyond the surface.
The data centre industry may seem male dominated and
even unglamorous, but you can 昀椀nd a career within it that
suits you. For me, the industry has been a breath of fresh
air, and I am now doing my best work in a role I love, in an
organisation where I feel valued for my talents, not for my
gender or background.
Kao Data ESG Report 2025-26
39
